In the tech sector, the job market is tumultuous; with over 200,000 layoffs in 2023, uncertainties loom large. While other sectors like government, leisure, and hospitality are the land of plenty, the tech industry feels to some like the land of empty promises. No one knows the job market better than Rose Consulting Group's founder, Erica Ruggeri, who has been recruiting, hiring, and consulting for the tech industry for a number of years. "While many job seekers may feel stuck and disheartened, it's important to stay optimistic," Ruggeri advises.
She adds, "There are four key strategies that I share with all the prospects I work with, and when they follow them, they will not only persevere, but they will thrive."
Fix Your Mindset
The first strategy Ruggeri shares is to "maintain a positive attitude. Negative attracts negative. It is easy to spiral when layoffs are happening and the overall environment is very difficult, but the best thing you can do is stay optimistic and professional. That is paramount." A person's mindset is controllable, and Ruggeri stresses the importance of controlling the controllables. "You have to be resilient and mentally strong, and that's something you can control. You have to radiate positive energy to get that energy back."
Adopting a resilient and optimistic mindset can significantly impact one's job search. "A person's attitude is palpable, whether in person or through a screen, and it can influence the outcome of interviews and networking opportunities. Even if you don't get the job you are interviewing for, the interviewer may know someone who knows someone. Every interaction matters."
She adds that rejection is just part of the process. "Rejection is protection. Each rejection should be viewed as redirection rather than failure." It can help job seekers to re-evaluate what they are looking for and what they truly want. And, it is important to remember that not getting hired means it wasn't the right place or the right role.
As Ted Lasso says, "Be a goldfish." Ruggeri agrees, "Having a short term memory and letting go of any rejection is essential because there may be a lot of 'no's' before the magical 'you're hired with the right company."
Decide What You Want
Although losing a job can feel like the end of the world, for many, it is also often the start of something bigger and better. Before diving headlong into the job hunt, people should take advantage of this chance to contemplate their career path. Ruggeri suggests, "Envision where you want it to lead. Jobs can limit one's perspective and their options. A layoff can be an opportunity to redefine what a person wants, to explore new passions, and even possibly transition into a different field."
In a recent Tech Times article, Roland Rust, a Distinguished Professor of Marketing at The University of Maryland, wrote a book that discusses how 'feeling' jobs are replacing tech/'Thinking' jobs. He notes a case study featured in The Washington Post, where individuals are transitioning from tech careers to fields such as psychology, a trend he predicts in his book. So, if you have always wanted to go into psychology or any other 'feeling' job, now might be a good opportunity.
"When you are ready to hunt for that next job," Ruggeri advises, "determine your non-negotiables. Knowing what you want and need from a job will prevent you from settling for positions that don't align with your goals which will ultimately lead to dissatisfaction and another round of job hunting down the line. Don't apply for a job that's remote if you want to be in the office hybrid or full time and vice versa."
Make Your Resume Quantifiable and Tailored
"Your resume is your first impression for potential employers, so it must shine." Utilizing tools like Chat GPT and other tools like grammarly are important to making sure job seekers' resumes really standout and don't get disqualified for spelling errors.
"Quantifying accomplishments wherever possible is key," Ruggeri asserts. "In other words, don't just say that team building is a strength, instead prove it by sharing that you built a team from two to 20." Job seekers should utilize specific numbers, metrics, and percentages to demonstrate the impact of their work. They should highlight achievements using action verbs and quantify timeframes to provide context. By showcasing measurable results, such as increased sales or cost reductions, Ruggeri notes, "you provide tangible evidence of your contributions and enhance your candidacy for potential employers." Likewise, pay attention to keywords and phrases in the job description and add them to your resume if they fit. This will ensure that it isn't filtered out for not meeting a requirement or skill you have.
Ruggeri also recommends tailoring each resume to fit the specific job by emphasizing relevant skills and experiences. "A well-crafted resume can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview. It is the first impression, so make it a great impression."
"Make it very detailed so that the recruiter or hiring manager that reviews it really gets a good understanding of your skill sets and your experience. And then you can obviously elaborate during the interview and really sell yourself."
Outreach and Networking
"Job hunting is a job in itself and requires dedicated time and effort," Ruggeri explains. She advises spending at least two hours each day conducting outreach and networking. She also encourages career fairs, online job boards, and professional organizations as well. "Don't hesitate to reach out to connections."
"Your college or university has job listings, too." Ruggeri emphasizes, "You have to be open to creative possibilities, and you also have to actively look for them. You've got to be doing your own due diligence and research. Remember too, that it is okay to ask for help or to reach out to people. Your connections, your network, go to networking events, get yourself out there. You just can't sit at home and pray that a job is going to land in your lap. It's like anything, if you have a goal, you have to work for it, and you have to go after it."
Work with a Recruiter
"Let me help," Ruggeri asserts. Recruiters, particularly those specializing in the tech sector, are invaluable allies during a job search. Companies like Erica's Rose Consulting possess a deep understanding of the tech industry and have extensive networks within it. They are aware of what industry leaders are seeking in prospective candidates, which enables them to assist job seekers in honing and presenting their skills, preparing them for potential interview questions, and perfecting their LinkedIn profile and resume. One of Rugger's clients shares, "Erica was there for me every step of the way, from sourcing a perfect role and work culture for me to preparing me for what was next to come in each round of the interview process. She is exceptional at what she does and genuinely keeps everyone's best interests in mind."
Ruggeri shares, "To capture a hiring manager's attention on LinkedIn you need to actively engage with industry-related content, look to foster meaningful connections with thought leaders, and share insightful posts to showcase your expertise." Partnering with a recruiter can significantly simplify the job search process, offering valuable guidance and access to opportunities that might otherwise be overlooked.
While the tech job market may seem daunting, approaching it with the right mindset and strategies can turn the tide in your favor. By focusing on what you want, fine-tuning your resume, conducting proactive outreach, and leveraging resources like recruiters, you can navigate the job hunt with confidence and ultimately land your dream job (and it might even be a job you have never considered before).
For help with these strategies and more, contact Rose Consulting Group today.
